Girona coach lays out plan to stop Barcelona sensation ahead of clash: ‘Have to give him a bit of a hard time’

Girona head coach Michel has underlined the size of the task facing his side this weekend when they host high-flying Barcelona, singling out teenage forward Lamine Yamal as the principal threat to be neutralised. Speaking on Spanish radio programme El Larguero (h/t Mundo Deportivo), Michel praised Yamal’s rapid emergence and outlined the defensive strategy he believes is necessary to shackle the 17-year-old.

“I think all coaches look for ways to stop Barça’s attack. Their right flank is one of their weapons, because of Lamine Yamal,” Michel said. “I already said back then, when I saw the impact he had in LaLiga as soon as he arrived, that we were talking about possibly one of the players who is going to define an era worldwide.”

Yamal has contributed 15 goals and 13 assists across all competitions this season, numbers that place him among the most productive attackers in Spain. Michel highlighted the forward’s evolution from pure dribbler to complete creator, noting his vision and execution in the final third.

“He’s very difficult to stop because now, in addition to his individual skill, he also has the passing ability. Most dribblers struggle to look far ahead and deliver that cross or that forward pass. But with Lamine, if you give him an inch so he can’t face you, he’ll get the pass out. He’ll get the pass with the outside of his foot and he’ll get the cross in. And then, if you stay too close to him, he’ll dribble past you. So, we’re talking about a game-changing player.”

Michel refused to reveal tactical specifics but stressed that collective pressure will be key. “I don’t want to give you any clues, but obviously, the way you apply pressure is very important. You have to give Lamine Yamal a bit of a hard time.”

The Catalan derby comes at a delicate moment for Girona, whose dream 2024/25 campaign has lost momentum. With Barcelona arriving in confident mood after strong recent form, Michel’s men face an uphill battle to contain a side spearheaded by Yamal on the right flank.